Effect Of Grain Source Research Articles

Effects of grain source and processing methods on the nutritional profile and digestibility of grain amaranth

Abstract Amaranth grain is reputed to have a high nutritional value, and as a plant, be tolerant to adverse weather conditions. This suggests that grain amaranth could be useful in tackling malnutrition and the growing burden of cardiometabolic diseases. However, there is insufficient knowledge at present about how the nutrient composition and digestibility of amaranth grain varies with growing environment, crop genotype, and post-harvest processing. We investigated the effect of the source and processing of amaranth grains on the digestibility of protein and lipid present in the grains. There was variation in the composition and digestibility of raw grains from different sources, indicating a role of genotype and/or growing environment which warrants further investigation. The greatest differences in digestibility were measured between the different processing techniques. This indicates that efforts to increase the cultivation and consumption of grain amaranth need to be supported by education about effective processing and preparation techniques.

Comparative effects of grain source on digestion characteristics of finishing diets for feedlot cattle: steam-flaked corn, barley, wheat, and oats

Twelve Holstein steers (454 ± 32 kg) with cannulas in rumen and proximal duodenum were used in a generalized randomized block design to compare steam-flaked corn (SFC), barley (SFB), wheat (SFW), and oats (SFO) as grain sources (74% of diet dry matter, flake density = 0.31 kg L−1) on characteristics of digestion. Ruminal organic matter (OM) digestion was similar for SFC-, SFB-, and SFW-based diets, but lower for SFO. Ruminal microbial efficiency was greater for SFW and SFO. Given that the undegradable intake protein (UIP) value of SFC is 57%, the comparative UIP values for SFB, SFW, and SFO were 39.8%, 36.1%, and 47.3%, respectively. Ruminal starch digestion was lower for SFC than the other flaked grains. Total-tract OM digestion and digestible energy were greatest for SFC, intermediate for SFB and SFW, and lowest for SFO. Given the net energy maintenance (NEm) value of SFC is 2.40 Mcal kg−1, the comparative NEm value for SFB, SFW, and SFO were 2.25, 2.36, and 2.17 Mcal kg−1, respectively. Steam flaking results in important modifications of small grains that appreciably affect their comparative feeding value. Current standards underestimates the NE value of SFB, SFW, and SFO, and overestimates the UIP values for SFB and SFO.

676 Effects of grain source and starch concentration in dairy goat diet on ruminal fermentation, milk production, and inflammation

676 Effects of grain source and starch concentration in dairy goat diet on ruminal fermentation, milk production, and inflammation

Growth performance, feeding behavior, and selected blood metabolites of Holstein dairy calves fed restricted amounts of milk: No interactions between sources of finely ground grain and forage provision

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of grain sources and forage provision on growth performance, blood metabolites, and feeding behaviors of dairy calves. Sixty 3-d-old Holstein dairy calves (42.2 ± 2.5 kg of body weight) were used in a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement with the factors being grain sources (barley and corn) and forage provision (no forage, alfalfa hay, and corn silage). Individually housed calves were randomly assigned (n = 10 calves per treatment: 5 males and 5 females) to 6 treatments: (1) barley grain (BG) without forage supplement, (2) BG with alfalfa hay (AH) supplementation, (3) BG with corn silage (CS) supplementation, (4) corn grain (CG) without forage supplement, (5) CG with AH supplementation, and (6) CG with CS supplementation. All calves had ad libitum access to water and starter feed throughout the experiment. All calves were weaned on d 49 and remained in the study until d 63. Starter feed intake and average daily gain (ADG) was greater for calves fed barley than those fed corn during the preweaning and overall periods. Calves supplemented with CS had greater final body weight and postweaning as well as overall starter feed intake than AH and non-forage-supplemented calves. During the preweaning and overall periods, feeding of CS was found to increase ADG compared with feeding AH and nonforage diets. However, feed efficiency was not affected by dietary treatments. Calves supplemented with CS spent more time ruminating compared with AH and control groups; nonnutritive oral behaviors were the greatest in non-forage-supplemented calves. Regardless of the grain sources, the rumen pH value was greater for AH calves compared with CS and non-forage-supplemented calves. Blood concentration of BHB was greater for CS-supplemented calves compared with AH and non-forage-supplemented calves. Furthermore, body length and heart girth were greater for calves fed barley compared with those fed corn, and also in forage-supplemented calves compared with non-forage-supplemented calves. These results showed no interactions between grain sources and forage provision on calf performance; however, the inclusion of CS and barley in starter diets could enhance the growth performance of Holstein calves during the transition from liquid to solid feed.

Effects of grain source, grain processing, and protein degradability on rumen kinetics and microbial protein synthesis in Boer kids.

Microbial protein synthesis in the rumen would be optimized when dietary carbohydrates and proteins have synchronized rates and extent of degradation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of varying ruminal degradation rate of energy and nitrogen sources on intake, nitrogen balance, microbial protein yield, and kinetics of nutrients in the rumen of growing kids. Eight Boer goats (38.2 ± 3.0 kg) were used. The treatments were arranged in a split-plot Latin square design with grain sources (barley or corn) forming the main plots (squares). Grain processing methods and levels of protein degradability formed the subplots in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement for a total of 8 dietary treatments. The grain processing method was rolling for barley and cracking for corn. Levels of protein degradability were obtained by feeding untreated soybean meal (SBM) or heat-treated soybean meal (HSBM). Each experimental period lasted 21 d, consisting of a 10-d adaptation period, a 7-d digestibility determination period, and a 4-d rumen evacuation and sampling period. Kids fed with corn had higher purine derivatives (PD) excretion when coupled with SBM compared with HSBM and the opposite occurred with barley-fed kids ( ≤ 0.01). Unprocessed grain offered with SBM led to higher PD excretion than with HSBM whereas protein degradability had no effect when processed grain was fed ( ≤ 0.03). Results of the current experiment with high-concentrate diets showed that microbial N synthesis could be maximized in goat kids by combining slowly fermented grains (corn or unprocessed grains) with a highly degradable protein supplement (SBM). With barley, a more rapidly fermented grain, a greater microbial N synthesis was observed when supplementing a low-degradable protein (HSBM).

The effects of corn- or sorghum-based diets with or without sorghum dried distillers grains with solubles on lactating-sow and litter performance

ABSTRACT A total of 140 sows and their litters were used to determine the effects of corn- or sorghum-based diets without or with 20% sorghum dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) on lactating-sow and litter performance. Sows were allotted to 1 of 4 dietary treatments on d 110 of gestation. Weaning age was 21 d. Treatments were arranged in a 2 × 2 factorial with main effects of grain source and sorghum DDGS. Litters were equalized to 13 pigs per treatment. Overall (d 0 to 21), a tendency (P

Effects of Increasing Crystalline Amino Acids in Sorghum- or Corn-based Diets on Finishing Pig Growth Performance and Carcass Composition

A study was conducted to determine the impact of increasing crystalline amino acids in either sorghum- or corn-based diets on finishing pig growth and carcass composition. A total of 288 pigs (PIC 327×1050; initially 101.1 lb) were used in a 90-d study with 8 pigs per pen and 6 pens per treatment. Treatments were arranged in a 2 × 3 factorial with main effects of grain source (sorghum vs. corn) and crystalline AA supplementation (low, medium, or high). Amino acids ratios to Lys as well as standardized ileal digestibility coefficients used were set by NRC (2012). All diets were formulated to the same Lys:NE ratio and at 95% of the pig’s estimated Lys requirement to ensure that AA were not above the pigs’ requirement. The grain sources and soybean meal were analyzed for AA profile and diets formulated from these concentrations. The low AA fortification contained L-lysine HCl and DL-methionine. The medium AA fortification contained L-lysine HCl, DL-methionine, and L-threonine. The high AA fortification contained L-lysine HCl, DL-methionine, L-threonine, and L-valine in sorghumor L-tryptophan in corn-based diets. Overall, there were no grain source × crystalline AA level interactions observed for any response criteria measured. Pigs fed corn-based diets tended to have greater ADG (P < 0.072) and had better F/G (P < 0.01) than those fed sorghum-based diets. As crystalline AA increased, ADG tended to increase then decrease (quadratic; P=0.057), and ADFI decreased (linear; P = 0.019) resulting in a tendency for improved F/G (quadratic; P=0.097). Pigs fed sorghum had decreased (P < 0.01) jowl fat iodine value in comparison to those fed corn-based diets. Crystalline AA level did not impact carcass characteristics. In conclusion, diets with high AA fortification had decreased ADG and ADFI with slightly improved F/G compared with low or medium AA fortification. Furthermore, grain sorghum had approximately 97% of the feeding value relative to corn based on F/G.

Effects of grain source and monensin level on growth performance, carcass traits and fatty acid profile in feedlot beef steers

A study was conducted to evaluate growth performance, carcass traits, and composition of fatty acid in carcass of feedlot steers fed diets varying in grain source and monensin levels. Two hundred crossbred steers (initial body weight [BW] 488±36.9kg) were blocked by BW, allotted to 20 pens, and then randomly assigned to 5 treatments (4 pens per treatment) with 2×2+1 factorial arrangement. Treatments were barley (100g/kg barley silage, 900g/kg barley-based concentrate, and 28mg/kg monensin) which is a standard feedlot diet for western Canadian feedlots, and diets substituting hard or soft wheat for barley combining with 28 or 44mg/kg monensin. Dry matter intake (DMI) was higher (P<0.02) for wheat than for barley diets but it was not different between hard and soft wheat diets. Increasing monensin supplementation reduced (P<0.01) DMI. Final BW, average daily gain and gain:feed were not different between treatments. Carcass traits were not affected by treatments except that dressing fraction was greater (P<0.05) for steers fed barley than wheat diets. Additionally, steers fed soft wheat had less (P<0.05) back fat and greater (P<0.05) meat yield compared with hard wheat diet. Substitution of wheat for barley grain did not affect the total monounsaturated fatty acid and polyunsaturated fatty acid, but decreased (P<0.05) vaccenic acid (t11-18:1; VA) and a-linolenic acid (18:3n-3; ALA) in the pars costalis diaphragmatic muscles of beef cattle. These results indicate that wheat can effectively replace barley grain in finishing ration without negatively influencing growth performance, carcass traits, and FA composition in beef. Supplementing monensin with higher level than currently practical level had no evident effect on growth rate, feed efficiency and carcass traits, although DMI was decreased.

Effects of grain source and marginal change in lucerne hay particle size on feed sorting, eating behaviour, chewing activity, and milk production in mid‐lactation Holstein dairy cows

This study investigated the effects of grain source and lucerne hay (LH) particle length on eating behaviour, chewing activity, and milk production of lactating dairy cows. Eight Holstein dairy cows (175 ± 21 days in milk) were used in a replicated 4 × 4 Latin square design with four 21-days periods. The experiment was a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments with barley grain alone or equal blend of barley and maize grains combined with short (15 mm) and long (30 mm) LH. Diets were fed ad libitum as total mixed ration with a concentrate to forage ratio of 60:40. Interactions between grain source and LH particle length on feed particle distributions, sorting index, chewing activity, and milk production were minimal. Partially replacing barley grain with maize in the diet overall did not change diurnal distributions of particles retained on the sieves of Penn State Particle Separator but reduced the proportion of particles on 1.18-sieve and increased that of particles on pan (p < 0.05). Grain source did not affect sorting index and chewing activity. However, feeding long LH increased (p < 0.01) intakes of long particles retained on 19- and 8-mm of sieve, prolonged (p < 0.05) eating time, and lowered eating rate (p < 0.05). Interestingly, cows fed with long LH ate more coarse particle during critical-early time post feeding (i. e. 1.5 h), where eating time increased and eating rate decreased (p < 0.05). Increasing particle length of dietary LH tended to increase milk fat-to-protein ratio (p = 0.08). The results suggested that the increased eating time and decreased eating rate as a result of marginally increasing LH particle length would be beneficial to alleviate reduction of ruminal pH and milk fat percentage following the ingestion of highly fermentable diets.

Effects of increasing crystalline amino acids in sorghum- or corn-based diets on nursery pig growth performance (2014)

A total of 300 pigs (PIC 1050; initially 23.3 lb BW) were used in a 21-d study to compare the effects of increasing crystalline amino acids in sorghum- and corn-based diets on nursery pig growth performance. Treatments with 5 pigs per pen and 10 pens per treatment were arranged in a 2 × 3 factorial with main effects of grain source (sorghum vs. corn) and crystalline amino acid supplementation (low, medium, or high). Amino acid ratios to lysine as well as standardized ileal digestibility coefficients used were set by NRC (20123). Because replacing increasing amounts of soybean meal with crystalline amino acids changes the NE of the diet, all diets were formulated to the same Lys:NE ratio. The lysine concentration in the diets was formulated at 95% of the pig’s estimated requirement to ensure that the other amino acids, on a ratio to lysine, would not be underestimated. The grain sources and soybean meal were analyzed for amino acid profile and diets formulated from these concentrations. The low amino acid fortification contained L-lysine HCl and DL-methionine. The medium amino acid fortification contained L-lysine HCl, DL-methionine, and L-threonine, and the high amino acid fortification contained L-lysine HCl, DL-methionine, L-threonine, and L-valine. Overall, no main or interactive effects (P > 0.05) of grain source or added amino acids were detected for any response criteria. This suggests that balancing to the third, fourth, or fifth limiting amino acids is possible in both sorghum- and corn-based diets with the use of crystalline amino acids without detrimental effects on growth performance.; Swine Day, Manhattan, KS, November 20, 2014

Nutrient database for sorghum distillers dried grains with solubles from ethanol plants in the western plains region and their effects on nursery pig performance1,2

Samples of sorghum distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) were collected and analyzed to establish a nutrient database and evaluate the quality and consistency between and within 5 ethanol plants in Kansas and Texas. Each sample (n = 21) was analyzed for AA, DM, CP, crude fiber, crude fat, ash, NDF, ADF, trace minerals, and starch. Mean values (DM basis) were 0.88% Lys, 10.49% crude fat, 34.21% CP, and 4,722 kcal/kg GE. The standard deviations among sorghum DDGS plants were similar to those within plants for most nutrients. Results of these analyses were used to formulate diets for 2 nursery trials. The 2 experiments were conducted to determine the effects of adding sorghum DDGS (29.0% CP and 7.2% crude fat) to corn- or sorghum-based diets on nursery pig growth performance. In Exp. 1, 360 nursery barrows (6.8 kg and 26 d of age) were used in a 34-d study. Pigs were allotted to 1 of 8 dietary treatments with 5 pigs per pen and 9 pens per treatment. Treatments were arranged in a 2 × 4 factorial with main effects of grain source (corn vs. sorghum) and sorghum DDGS (0, 15, 30, or 45%). Diets were formulated to 1.30 and 1.25% standardized ileal digestible (SID) Lys in phases 1 and 2, respectively, but were not balanced for energy. Overall, there were no differences among pigs fed sorghum- or corn-based diets for ADG and ADFI; however, as sorghum DDGS increased from 0 to 45% of the diet, ADG decreased (linear, P < 0.01). There was a DDGS × grain source interaction (linear, P < 0.04) observed for G:F. In corn-based diets, pigs fed increasing sorghum DDGS had relatively similar G:F. However, in pigs fed sorghum-based diets, G:F was best for those fed 0% DDGS but was decreased in pigs fed 15, 30, or 45% sorghum DDGS. In Exp. 2, 180 nursery pigs (10.7 kg and 38 d of age) were used in a 21-d study with 6 pigs per pen and 5 pens per treatment. Treatments were arranged in a 2 × 3 factorial with main effects of grain source (corn vs. sorghum) and DDGS (0 vs. 30% corn or sorghum DDGS). Diets were formulated to 1.27% SID Lys and were not balanced for energy. Overall, there were no differences in ADG among pigs fed sorghum- or corn-based diets as well as no differences among pigs fed sorghum or corn DDGS. Pigs fed diets with 30% DDGS gained less (P < 0.03) than pigs fed basal diets. These results indicate sorghum can be a suitable replacement for corn in nursery pig diets, but increasing sorghum DDGS decreased ADG.

Dietary grain source and oil supplement: Feeding behavior and lactational performance of Holstein cows

Effects of grain source and dietary oil supplement on dry matter intake (DMI), feeding, chewing behavior, and production performance of lactating dairy cows were evaluated using eight multiparous Holstein cows (77±22.1 days in milk; mean±SD) in a duplicated 4×4 Latin square design with a 2×2 factorial arrangement of treatments. Experimental diets contained either ground barley or ground corn supplemented with either fish oil or soybean oil at 2% of dietary dry matter (DM). Geometric mean particle size of dietary treatments was 4.1mm. Dry matter intake tended (P=0.09) to be greater for barley- vs. corn-based diets (23.2 vs. 22.3kg/d), but was reduced for the fish oil compared to soybean oil supplemented diets (21.1 vs. 24.3kg/d; P<0.001). This reduction in DMI was attributed to smaller meal size (1.24 vs. 1.55kg of DM; P=0.004) and slower eating rate (0.082 vs. 0.098kg of DM/min; P<0.001) for fish oil compared to soybean oil supplemented diets. Main treatment effects interacted (P=0.005) for DMI of particles retained on 19mm sieve but not for sorting index. Eating rate (0.090kg of DM/min) was similar between barley- and corn-based diets, however, rumination time was greater for barley- compared to corn-based diets as result of longer rumination bout duration (32.5 vs. 28.5min/bout; P=0.01). Barley- compared to corn-based diets increased total chewing time by 71min (709 vs. 638min) for cows fed fish oil, but not for cows fed soybean oil. Grain source did not affect milk yield or milk composition. Compared to soybean oil, fish oil negatively affected milk yield (40.4 vs. 43.4kg/d; P=0.01), and thereby, both milk fat (0.91 vs. 1.26kg/d; P<0.001) and protein (1.23 vs. 1.33kg/d; P=0.007) production. However, feed efficiency (milk yield/DMI) was greater in fish oil compared to soybean oil supplemented diets (1.94 vs. 1.80; P=0.003). Results indicated that grain source and oil supplement can interact to affect feeding and chewing behavior, but not lactational performance of lactating cows.

한우 거세우의 반추위메탄가스 생성량에 대한 곡류사료원의 영향

본 연구는 거세 한우의 비육 기간에 보리나 옥수수 위주의 농후 사료를 일당 증체량 0.7 kg/일에 필요한 TDN량 6.9 kg씩 급여하였을 때 장내 발효과정에 생성되는 메탄가스를 측정하는데 그 목적이 있다. 보리나 옥수수 급여구의 건물 섭취량은 차이가 없었으나 영양소별 섭취량은 보리와 옥수수의 영양성분의 차이에 의해서 보리 위주의 농후사료 급여구가 조단백질, 조섬유, 가용무질소물, 유기물, Neutral detergent fiber와 Acid detergent fiber의 섭취량이 유의적으로 섭취량이 높았고(p<0.05), 조지방과 조회분 섭취량은 옥수수 위주의 농후사료 급여구가 유의적으로 높았다(p<0.05). 각 영양소별 소화율은 보리나 옥수수 위주의 농후사료 급여 구 모두 건물, 조단백질, 조지방, 조회분 소화율에서 차이가 없었으나 조섬유, Neutral detergent fiber와 Acid detergent fiber 소화율은 보리 위주의 농후사료 급여 구에서 유의적으로 높았다(p<0.05). 호흡가스 발생량은 옥수수 위주의 농후사료를 급여했을 때가 산소 소모량 6.4% (p=0.32), 이산화탄소와 메탄생성량은 각각 15.4% (p=0.09)와 16.8% (p=0.09) 높은 경향이 나타났고, 메탄 배출계수는 보리나 옥수수 위주의 농후사료 급여 시 각각 43.6 (kg/Head/Year)과 50.9 (kg/Head/Year)로 산출되었다. 메탄전환계수는 보리와 옥수수 위주의 농후사료를 급여하였을 때 총에너지 섭취량은 각각 35.9 Mcal/d와 35.5 Mcal/d씩 섭취했고 메탄으로 손실된 에너지는 12.2 Mcal/d와 14.9 Mcal/d로 메탄가스 생성에 의한 메탄전환계수는 보리 위주의 농후사료 급여 구에서 4% (0.04 Ym)이었고, 옥수수 위주의 농후사료 급여 구에서 5% (0.05 Ym)로 나타났다. 따라서 위의 결과는 우리나라 한우의 사양 실정에 맞게 적용한 실험으로 향후 축산분야의 온실가스 저감을 위한 사양체계 및 메탄배출계수 산출연구에 대한 기초자료로 활용될 수 있을 것으로 판단된다. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of grain sources on the ruminal methane production in Hanwoo steers. Six Hanwoo steers (BW = 614.4 <TEX>${\pm}$</TEX> 8.3 kg) were fed, on a DM basis (TDN 6.91 kg), 10% rice straw and 90% barley or corn based concentrate, respectively, according to Korean Feeding Standards (Hanwoo). Each period lasted 18 days including a 14-day adaptation and a 4-day measuring period. The steers were in the ventilated hood-type respiration chamber system (one cattle per chamber) during each measuring period to measure heat and methane production for 1 day. Nutrient intake and digestibility were not affected by steer fed grain sources. Methane concentration was not affected by steer fed either barley or corn-based concentrate, respectively (0.022% vs. 0.025%). Methane production was greater by steers fed corn than those fed barley (119.3 g/day vs. 139.4 g/day). This result indicated that methane emission factor by maintenance energy requirement for the late fattening Hanwoo fed corn was higher than the steers fed barley (43.6 kg/head/year) vs. corn (50.9 kg/head/year). Methane conversion rate (Ym) was 0.04 Ym and 0.05 Ym for barley and corn, respectively.

The effects of corn- or sorghum-based diets with or without sorghum dried distillers grains with solubles on lactating sow and litter performance (2012)

A total of 140 sows (PIC 1050) and their litters were used to determine the effects of corn- or sorghum-based diets with or without 20% sorghum dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) on lactating sow and litter performance. On d 110 of gestation, sows were allotted to 1 of 4 dietary treatments arranged in a 2 × 2 factorial with main effects of grain source (corn vs. sorghum) and sorghum DDGS (0 vs. 20%; 32.1% CP and 9.2% crude fat as-fed). All diets were formulated to 0.97% standardized ileal digestible lysine but were not balanced for energy. Litters were equalized to at least 12 pigs per sow after farrowing. Two sows and one sow were removed from the study for the sorghum and sorghum-DDGS treatments, respectively, because of initial feed refusal.; Swine Day, Manhattan, KS, November 15, 2012

Chromium supplementation and substitution of barley grain with corn: effects on metabolite and hormonal responses in periparturient dairy cows

Thirty-two multiparous Holstein cows were used to investigate the effects of chromium-l-methionine (Cr-Met) supplementation and dietary grain source on metabolic indices throughout the periparturient period. Cows were fed a total mixed ration with the concentrate portion based on ground barley (barley based diet, BBD)--or ground corn (corn-based diet, CBD) from 21 days before anticipated calving through 28 days after calving. The Cr-Met was supplemented at dosages of 0 or 0.08 mg of Cr/kg of metabolic body weight throughout the experiment. Thus, treatments were in a 2 (Cr-Met) × 2 (grain sources) factorial arrangement. Plasma glucose, non-esterified fatty acids, triglyceride, very low-density lipoprotein, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), insulin, glucagon, cortisol and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) concentrations were not affected by chromium supplementation on calving day (d 0). However, there was a trend for decreased β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) and increased cholesterol on d 0 in cows fed the Cr supplemented diet. On d 21 postpartum (wk 3 p.p.), plasma glucagon concentration tended to be greater in cows fed the Cr supplemented diet. However, other plasma metabolite and hormone measures were not affected by Cr supplementation in wk 3 p.p. There was no effect of grain source on d 0 plasma metabolic and endocrine measures. In wk 3 p.p., a significant difference was found only for plasma concentration of glucagon that was higher for cows fed the BBD compared with the CBD. There was an interaction of Cr-Met supplementation and grain source in wk 3 p.p. plasma concentration of BUN to decrease in CBD and increase in BBD, supplemented with Cr-Met. No Cr by grain interactions were observed for other plasma metabolic variables on d 0 and in wk 3 p.p. These results indicate that Cr-Met supplementation and substituting barley grain with corn throughout the transition period have only moderate effects on metabolic and endocrine parameters.

The effects of sorghum dried distillers grains with solubles on nursery pig performance (2011)

Two experiments were conducted to determine the effects of sorghum dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) on nursery pig growth performance. In both experiments, sorghum DDGS were added to corn- or sorghum-based diets to determine their impact on ADG, ADFI, and F/G. In Exp. 1, a total of 360 nursery barrows (PIC 1050, initially 15.1 lb and 26 d of age) were used with 5 pigs per pen and 9 pens per treatment. Pigs were allotted to 1 of 8 dietary treatments arranged in a 2 × 4 factorial with main effects of grain source (corn vs. sorghum) and sorghum DDGS (0, 15, 30, or 45%). Overall (d 0 to 34), pigs fed the corn and sorghum diets had similar ADG and ADFI; however, F/G was poorer (P < 0.05) for pigs fed the sorghum-based diets compared with the corn-based diets. Also, increasing DDGS reduced ADG (linear, P < 0.01) but increased ADFI (linear, P < 0.07), resulting in poorer F/G (linear, P < 0.01). In Exp. 2, a total of 180 nursery pigs (PIC 327 × 1050, initially 23.8 lb and 38 d of age) were used in a 21-d study with 6 pigs per pen and 5 pens per treatment. The dietary treatments were arranged in a 2 × 3 factorial with main effects of grain source (corn vs. sorghum) and DDGS (none, 30% corn DDGS, or 30% sorghum DDGS). Overall (d 0 to 21), no differences were found in ADG, ADFI, and F/G among pigs fed the corn- or sorghum-based diets. DDGS source (corn vs. sorghum) also did not influence growth performance; however, adding 30% DDGS to either the corn- or sorghum-based diets tended to reduce ADG (P < 0.10). Pigs fed diets with DDGS had similar ADFI and F/G when compared with pigs fed the basal diets (0% DDGS). In conclusion, sorghum can be used as a suitable replacement for corn in nursery diets. In Exp. 1, feed efficiency was approximately 5% poorer in pigs fed sorghum-based diets vs. pigs fed corn-based diets, which is similar to the energy content differences between the two grains. However, increasing sorghum DDGS to 45% of the diet reduced pig growth performance, so its inclusion needs to be evaluated on an income over feed costs basis.; Swine Day, Manhattan, KS, November 17, 2011

Effects of grain source, silage level, and slaughter weight endpoint on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and meat quality in Angus and Charolais steers

Two growth performance trials were conducted to evaluate the effects of grain source (corn vs. barley), corn silage level (15 vs. 50%) and body weight (BW) at slaughter on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and beef quality. Gains were greater ( P &lt; 0.01) feeding corn vs. barley to Angus cattle slaughtered at 550 or 600 kg, most likely due to greater (P &lt; 0.02) feed intakes for corn-fed cattle. Despite greater dry matter intake (DMI; P &lt; 0.01) and feed to gain ratios (P &lt; 0.08) with 50% silage diets, cost of production was lower (P &lt; 0.01) feeding 50 vs. 15% silage diets. Grain source by BW endpoint interactions (P &lt; 0.06) were present for Angus steers due to greater average daily gain (ADG) and lower feed to gain and cost of production in corn-fed cattle slaughtered at 600 versus 550 kg, while the converse was the case for barley-fed cattle. Carcass characteristics and palatability attributes were generally not affected (P &gt; 0.05) by grain source or silage level in the diet. Grain source by silage level by slaughter endpoint interactions (P &lt; 0.08) were present for measures of tenderness (shear force and taste panel assessment of tenderness, chewiness, and rate of breakdown). Gains were not affected (P &gt; 0.27) by grain source for Charolais cattle, while barley feeding decreased (P &lt; 0.10) DMI, feed to gain, and costs of production versus corn feeding. Silage level in the diet did not affect (P &gt; 0.10) any growth performance trait in Charolais cattle. Grain source generally did not affect (P &gt; 0.10) most carcass characteristics and shear force with the Charolais steers. The feeding of the 15% silage diet decreased (P &lt; 0.10) measures of leanness and muscling. Many carcass characteristics were affected (P &lt; 0.02) by slaughter endpoint in Charolais steers, with values changing as BW at slaughter increased from 600 to 700 kg. Key words: Corn, barley, beef cattle, slaughter endpoint, shear force, palatability attributes

Effect of grain processing degree on intake, digestion, ruminal fermentation, and performance characteristics of steers fed medium-concentrate growing diets1

Three trials were conducted to evaluate the effects of degree of barley and corn processing on performance and digestion characteristics of steers fed growing diets. Trial 1 used 14 (328 +/- 43 kg initial BW) Holstein steers fitted with ruminal, duodenal, and ileal cannulas in a completely randomized design to evaluate intake, site of digestion, and ruminal fermentation. Treatments consisted of coarsely rolled barley (2,770 microm), moderately rolled barley (2,127 microm), and finely rolled barley (1,385 microm). Trial 2 used 141 crossbred beef steers (319 +/- 5.5 kg initial BW; 441 +/- 5.5 kg final BW) fed for 84 d in a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement to evaluate the effects of grain source (barley or corn) and extent of processing (coarse or fine) on steer performance. Trial 3 investigated four degrees of grain processing in barley-based growing diets and used 143 crossbred steers (277 +/- 19 kg initial BW; 396 +/- 19 kg final BW) fed for 93 d. Treatments were coarsely, moderately, and finely rolled barley and a mixture of coarsely and finely rolled barley to approximate moderately rolled barley. In Trial 1, total tract digestibilities of OM, CP, NDF, and ADF were not affected (P > or = 0.10) by barley processing; however, total tract starch digestibility increased linearly (P < 0.05), and fecal starch output decreased linearly (P < 0.05) with finer barley processing. In situ DM, CP, starch disappearance rate, starch soluble fraction, and extent of starch digestion increased linearly (P < 0.05) with finer processing. In Trial 2, final BW and ADG were not affected by degree of processing or type of grain (P > or = 0.13). Steers fed corn had greater DMI (P = 0.05) than those fed barley. In Trial 3, DMI decreased linearly with finer degree of processing (P = 0.003). Gain efficiency, apparent dietary NEm, and apparent dietary NEg increased (P < 0.001) with increased degree of processing. Finer processing of barley improved characteristics of starch digestion and feed efficiency, but finer processing of corn did not improve animal performance in medium-concentrate, growing diets.

Effect of Grain Source and Exogenous Phytase on Phosphorus Digestibility in Dairy Cows

Two experiments were conducted to determine P digestibility in lactating dairy cows fed corn or barley as grain sources. The first experiment utilized a replicated incomplete 5×4 Latin square design with 8 lactating Holstein cows fed diets containing either corn alone or corn in combination with one of 4 barley varieties that differed in chemical composition. Total tract digestibility of P ranged from 11 to 29% for diets containing the barley varieties and was approximately 35% for the corn diet. A second experiment compared P digestibility in cows fed diets containing corn or barley when exogenous phytase was added to the diets. Lactating Holstein cows (n=16) were arranged in 4 replications of a Latin square with 2 grains (barley or corn), fed separately or with added exogenous phytase (427 phytase units/kg of total mixed ration and 4 periods of 21 d. Phytate P comprised about 50% of the total P (0.46% P) in the total mixed ration. The concentration of serum inorganic P was higher in cows fed diets with exogenous phytase (5.8 vs. 6.5mg/dL in cows fed barley diets and 5.5 vs 6.0mg/dL in cows fed corn diets). Using acid detergent lignin as an internal marker, hydrolysis of phytate P was increased by the exogenous phytase, and total P digestibility tended to be increased. In contrast to Experiment 1, in Experiment 2 there was no effect of grain source on P digestibility and total fecal P. Dry matter intake and efficiency of milk production were not affected by exogenous phytase or grain type. Although phytase activity occurs in the rumen, physical properties of the diet and ruminal passage rates may prevent total hydrolysis of phytate in the rumen of lactating cows. Thus, exogenous dietary phytase might improve P digestibility in dairy cows in some dietary situations.

Substituição do grão de milho pelo milheto (Pennisetum americanum) na dieta de vacas holandesas em lactação

Com o objetivo de se utilizar um substituto de menor custo para o milho, avaliou-se o efeito da substituição do grão de milho pelo grão de milheto, com base no teor de amido dos mesmos, sobre o desempenho e parâmetros ruminais de quatro vacas holandesas, com 90 dias de lactação em média (70 a 110 dias), em um delineamento em Quadrado Latino Incompleto 5x4. Os animais foram alimentados com dietas contendo 52,4% concentrado:48,6% silagem de milho na matéria seca. Os tratamentos consistiram das seguintes proporções de amido de milho e milheto: 100:0; 75:25; 50:50; 25:75; 0:100, respectivamente. Não foram encontradas diferenças no consumo de matéria seca, produção de leite (24,6 kg/d) e de leite corrigido para 3,5% de gordura (23,8 kg/d). O teor e produção de gordura e a produção de proteína do leite também não foram diferentes entre os tratamentos. Observou-se efeito quártico sobre o teor de proteína do leite, quando se elevou o teor de amido do milheto de 25 para 100%. Não houve diferença entre os tratamentos na concentração de acetato, propionato, ácidos graxos voláteis totais e pH ruminal, ocorrendo efeito linear negativo na concentração de N-NH3 com o aumento do teor de milheto. A substituição de milho por milheto não alterou o desempenho de vacas holandesas em lactação.